Jose Mourinho pointed to his players mentality in their 1-0 Europa League win over Bayer Leverkusen: ‘They have incredible desire’. The Giallorossi were missing a number of key players including Chris Smalling and Paulo Dybala but managed to edge the match thanks to a Edoardo Bove goal in the second half. Speaking with Sky Sport Italia, Mourinho heaped praise on his team for their attitude to the game, and pointed to the immense support at the Stadio Olimpico which helped carry Roma over the line:
“Full credit to the lads, they have an incredible mentality and desire.
“I’ve said it so many times: they have this sense of responsibility to make the supporters happy. The fans were incredible tonight, demonstrated by the display when we went to the stadium from Trigoria.”
“What we saw from them tonight, even to someone like me, creates certain emotions inside. I’m happy because the team responded incredibly well tonight, it wasn’t an easy match.”
“From a mental perspective tonight was tough, you need to stay concentrated for all ninety minutes, emotionally this is also difficult.”
“As for Bove, the growth he’s shown this season is impressive. From a character and emotional point of view he’s made a lot of strides.”
“Meanwhile, I did my job and done everything I can to help him grow and improve.”
